Scott Wasserman, deputy chief of staff to Gov. John Hickenlooper, will become president of the Bell Policy Center on Aug. 1, the Denver think tank announced Monday.
He will replace Wade Buchanan, who had led the nonprofit since its start. Buchanan to step down after 15 years in January. He stayed on while the center looked for a new leader. Buchanan’s last day will be June 30.
The left-leaning center is one of the most-cited entities in statehouse policymaking on budgeting, education and the needs of working families and older Coloradans.
“For 15 years, the Bell Policy Center has informed and advanced the conversation around economic opportunity in Colorado,” Wasserman said in a statement Monday.
“I couldn’t pass up the chance to build on this strong foundation, ensuring that Colorado’s leaders have the tools and inspiration to help Coloradans get ahead.”
Since joining the governor’s office in 2013, Wasserman also has served as chief of staff to former Lt. Gov. Joe Garcia and current Lt. Gov. Donna Lynne.
“Scott’s ability to understand competing perspectives and chart a path forward has been an asset for both the lieutenant governor and governor’s office,” Lynne stated. “Itap not surprising that the Bell chose him as their next leader.”
Wasserman has served as an administration adviser on education policy, workforce development and health care. He served in union leadership roles for the Service Employees International Union and Colorado WINS for eight years before that.
“Scottap experience, energy and vision for the Bell’s future caused him to rise to the very top out of an impressive list of candidates,” Kelly Nordini, the Bell Policy Center’s board chair, said in a statement. “We’re thrilled he agreed to take the reins at a time when creating opportunity for all Coloradans is more important than ever.”
